William Wilberforce: Take Up The Fight, by Janet and Geoff Benge

“William wondered how anyone was supposed to battle slavery. After all, King George III and the Church of England both had large amounts of money invested in trade with the West Indies. And a large number of bishops sat in the House of Lords. William shook his head. This was a much bigger fight than he felt capable of taking on.”

For two hundred years, British slave ships plied the Middle Passage, taking African men, women, and children to their doom. Ending slavery in the mighty British Empire seemed like an impossible dream, but once William Wilberforce (1759-1833) resolved to represent the abolitionists in Parliament, he would fight to the bitter end — for nearly half a century — to achieve that goal.

“Together with a community of dynamic reformers, Wilberforce struggled to rid his nation of evil and to give dignity and freedom to all people — slave and slave trader, poor and powerful. His example continues to inspire others to use their gifts and influence to do good against the odds.”

Title: William Wilberforce: Take Up The Fight (Heroes of History series)

Author: Janet and Geoff Benge

Genre(s): Christian Biography

Rating: ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ (five stars)

Romance Content: Main character does get married, but I don’t remember anything inappropriate or even “mushy”.

Recommended age range: 8+

My Review:

Though I recognized the name of William Wilberforce in connection to ending slavery in Great Britain, I did not know anything else about him before reading this book.  I found it to be an interesting and informative account of Wilberforce’s life and work.  Since I am an American, I don’t know much about the workings of British politics, but the Benges did a great job explaining how Parliament and such worked, at least during Wilberforce’s time.  (I don’t know if everything works the same way now.) 

            Wilberforce was an Anglican with Methodist leanings, and his spiritual journey is discussed in some detail.  While I do not agree with the “Church” of England’s theology, Methodists in that time period would perhaps have similar beliefs to my own.  Also, there is much reference to alcohol, gambling, card-playing and partying; Wilberforce was engaged in these activities when at college, instead of studying.  The negative effects of these things are shown slightly, at least in one person’s life.  These topics (theology of the “Church” of England and Methodism as well as an ungodly lifestyle) may call for discussion if younger children read this book.

            This story was interesting and inspiring, and it may lead the reader to fight for other oppressed peoples, such as the unborn.  I recommend this book!